Kuala Lampur, Sept. 21 -- In football, gegenpressing (Jurgen Klopp's Liverpool tactical masterclass) is often mistaken for the frantic chase after possession is lost. But its real intelligence lies in compact spacing, rehearsed triggers in transition play, and several players closing the same escape routes before the opponent reorganises. One player running alone is exertion. A formation moving in concert creates real pressure.

Brics is arriving at precisely this distinction in economic statecraft.

The New Delhi Declaration, adopted at the 18th Brics Summit, does not disguise the terrain. It registers concern over unilateral tariffs and non-tariff measures while condemning unilateral coercive measures contrary to international law, incl...